What does someone really need to know in the first days and weeks after a type 1 diabetes diagnosis?

In this episode, Dr. Steve Edelman and Dr. Jeremy Pettus share the “starter kit” they wish every newly diagnosed person and family had from the very beginning. Both diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 15, Steve and Jeremy reflect on what has changed since their own diagnoses and walk through the practical advice, emotional reassurance, and foundational education that can make this transition a little less overwhelming.

The conversation covers everything from the normal emotional reaction to a diagnosis, to the importance of early diabetes education, getting started with insulin, using CGM as soon as possible, and setting realistic blood sugar goals. They also talk about the honeymoon phase, how to keep doing the things you love, why support systems matter, how to find the right provider, and what newly diagnosed families should know about clinical trials and preserving beta cell function.

This episode is a reminder that while a new diagnosis can feel like your world has been turned upside down, people with type 1 diabetes can live long, healthy, full lives—and that no one has to figure it all out alone.